Local scope

Definition

Local scope refers to the region within a function where variables declared inside the function are accessible. Variables in local scope are not accessible outside of that function.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Variables declared inside a function are in local scope.
2. Local scope variables exist only during the execution of the function.
3. After a function finishes execution, its local scope is destroyed and the local variables are no longer accessible.
4. Local scope helps prevent variable name conflicts by isolating variables within functions.
5. Nested functions can access variables from their parent function's local scope.

Review Questions

• What happens to local scope variables after a function finishes execution?
• Can a variable in local scope be accessed from outside its function?
• How does local scope help in preventing variable name conflicts?

Related terms

Global Scope: The area of a program where variables declared outside any function are accessible throughout the entire code.

Nonlocal Scope: A special keyword used to refer to variables in an enclosing (but non-global) scope within nested functions.

__name__: __name__ is a special built-in variable which evaluates to the name of the module in Python.